It's really no secret that Star Trek and Star Wars are the big Number One and Number Two so far as most SciFi fans are concerned (with their ranking always interchangeable), but I will say this: methinks mankind owes a vastly greater debt to that singular work from the mind of Gene Roddenberry than it does George Lucas. Why? Well, how many careers in the various sciences of astronomy or physics or medicine were launched thanks to a late 1960's television program? How many folks pursued a career in electronics so that they could create create the first communicator, the first tricorder, or even the first warp drive? From what I've read, it's been quite a few. So think what you may -- prefer Star Wars over Star Trek, if you must -- but I'm sticking with my first love, and that one sprang from the imagination of the Great Bird of the Galaxy! Though he's no longer with us, Roddenberry was born on this day in 1921.
Actor William Marshall dabbled in the greater Star Trek universe in the guise of the much revered 'Dr. Richard Daystrom.' Though he's no longer with us, Marshall was born on this day in 1924.
[Source: Memory Alpha]
[Source: Memory Alpha]
Horror and Fantasy veteran Angus Scrimm suited up in the guise of 'The Tall Man' for the wide, wide world of the Phantasm franchise whenever called upon in his life. He also enjoyed roles aboard Project UFO, Salvage 1, The Lost Empire (1984), Chopping Mall (1986), Subspecies (1991), Mindwarp (1991), Munchie (1992), Munchie Strikes Back (1994), Vampirella (1996), Wishmaster (1997), FreakyLinks, The Nightmare Room, Legend Of The Phantom Rider (2002), Automatons (2006), and Dances With Werewolves (2017). Though he's no longer with us, Scrimm was born on this day in 1926.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Diana Muldaur is one of those rare actresses who had the chance to actually be involved in the original STAR TREK and then come aboard the Enterprise-D as Dr. Pulaski during Star Trek: The Next Generation's second season when Beverly Crusher was off doing whatever Beverly Crusher's are off doing. Pulaski was never quite a fan favorite, but she could sling a hypospray like nobody's business. Ms. Muldaur was born on this day back in 1938.
Pardon me if the male in me is showing when I say, "God bless the greater cinematic universe of the Bond girls!" Lovely Jill St. John gave it a whirl, appearing as Tiffany Case in 1971's Diamonds Are Forever. The actress also booked roles aboard such genre properties as The Lost World (1960), Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea (1964), and TV's Batman (1966). St. John was born on this day in 1940.
TV veteran Gerald McRaney played the patriarch to a small Midwestern town in CBS TV's Apocalypse-themed weekly series Jericho back during 2006 and 2007. McRaney was born on this day in 1947.
The venerable Ian McElhinney turned in solid work as one of the ancestors of Superman himself aboard Syfy's Krypton. Genre fans might also recognize him from work aboard HBO's popular Game Of Thrones as well as Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). McElhinney was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jonathan Frakes really does look better with the beard and mustache, doesn't he? First season's Commander William Riker from Star Trek: The Next Generation always looked a bit too baby-faced for my tastes. Adding the facial hair really was a command decision! Mr. Frakes has left an indelible footprint on the Trek legacy, being one of the first actors to get involved behind-the-camera as well as before it. He was born on this day back in 1952.
Martin Donovan is a working man's character actor. Check out his profile at IMDB.com, and you'll see he maintains an impressive resume both in and outside of quality genre projects. SciFi fans probably recognize him best from roles in The Dead Zone, The Lottery, and Ant-Man. Donovan was born on this day in 1957.
Tony Longo delivered just a bit of alien menace in the guise of 'Knuckles' aboard the SciFi/Comedy Suburban Commando (1991). The actor also paid visits to the worlds of Fantasy Island, Beauty And The Beast, They Came From Outer Space, Prehysteria (1993), The Sentinel, and The X-Files. Though he's no longer with us, Longo was born on this day in 1961.
Kyra Sedgwick took time away from conventional dramas and her own political skullduggery for work aboard Phenomenon (1996), a popular Fantasy from Touchstone Pictures. Sedgwick was born on this day in 1965.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though younger viewers really only know him for his role in HBO's tepid Entourage, I remember Kevin Dillon in the late 1980's big screen reboot of the SciFi classic, The Blob. Dillon was born on this day in 1965.
Dreamy Viveka Davis played a key role in the original TV incarnation of Kenneth Johnson's V, appearing as Polly Maxwell in both the first and second miniseries. Davis was born on this day in 1969.
Talk about your SciFi Near-Miss! Matthew Perry was in a SciFi TV pilot called L.A.X. 2194 that nearly (nearly) kept him out of securing long-term employment aboard NBC's Friends. When L.A.X. 2194 wasn't picked up for series, the actor was free to pursue that other gig. But, alas, what could've been ... In any event, Perry was born on this day in 1969.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Aussie actress Tasma Walton enjoyed a run of twelve episodes for the SciFi/Fantasy series Cleverman during its run in the land down under. Walton was born on this day in 1973.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Without a doubt, the Star Wars Prequel Trilogy wasn't to everyone's liking, and that man there -- the guy with the Gungan arms -- ended up inadvertently carrying a lot of the blame. That's Ahmed Best, better known to SciFi fans as the actor who gave voice to the deservedly maligned JarJar Binks. Best was born on this day in 1973.
Lovely Tracie Thoms (above center) had a small role in 2012's SciFi time travel thriller Looper from writer/director Rian Johnson. Thoms was born on this day in 1975.
As I've mentioned before, I'm probably one of the biggest Superman fans you'll find alive today, but in his final season or two I thought Smallville really went off the rails a bit too much in its regular tinkering with its vast mythology. Still, I appreciate a good job done by all performers, and Callum Blue made for a completely different take on the infamous General Zod. Blue was born on this day in 1977.
The lovely Michelle Borth was flying high with her work aboard the Warner Bros. breakout Superhero/Comedy hit Shazam (2019). Borth was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Former football player Thomas Q. Jones suited up for action of an entirely different sport when he joined the cast of Marvel's Luke Cage for its run on Netflix. Jones was born on this day in 1978.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Actress and director Melissa Fumero has lent her voice to the character of 'Melissa Tarleton' aboard the animated property Marvel's M.O.D.O.K. Fumero was born on this day in 1982.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mike Moh immersed himself in the (televised) world of Marvel's ever-growing Fantasy with a role aboard the short-lived Inhumans. Moh was born on this day in 1983.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Talk about your epic crossovers! The fetching Briana Venskus has enjoyed supporting screen time aboard both DC Comics' Supergirl as well as Marvel's Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D.! Furthermore, she's braved the Apocalypse at the heart of AMC's juggernaut The Walking Dead. Venskus was born on this day in 1984.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
And speaking about Superman, how about a birthday from Superman Returns? Newcomer Tristan Lake Leabu had a small but critical role in the twist in the mythology for the somewhat disappointing 2006 film. Leabu was born on this day in 1999.
On this day in 1938 (in the Netherlands), Flash Gordon himself took off cinematically on Flash Gordon's Trip To Mars. Directed by Ford Beebe, Robert F. Hill, and Frederick Stephani, the SciFi/Serial starred Buster Crabbe, Jean Rogers, and Charles Middleton. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a deadly Nitron ray strikes Earth, Flash Gordon and his friends travel to Mars to battle Ming the Merciless and his new ally Queen Azura."
"When a deadly Nitron ray strikes Earth, Flash Gordon and his friends travel to Mars to battle Ming the Merciless and his new ally Queen Azura."
A star is born! On this day in 1959 (in Sweden), Invasion Of The Animal People invaded our collective consciousness. Directed by Virgil W. Vogel, the feature starred Barbara Wilson, Robert Burton, and Sten Gester, and here's the plot summary that's provided by IMDB.com:
"Aliens release a furry critter in the wilds of Lapland where it takes a woman captive and threatens a group of scientists."
For the record:
Purists know that Invasion Of The Animal People is not the film's original name. According to Wikipedia.org, the film was titled Space Invasion Of Lapland in its native Sweden; and it was titled Terror In The Midnight Sun throughout most of its international run. It was eventually snapped up by an American producer who edited in some new characters and footage only then to be released in the U.S. under this name above. Interestingly enough, one reviewer featured on IMDB.com -- who has seen both the Swedish version and the U.S. -- states that the original is much better than what American audiences were given as a result.
"Aliens release a furry critter in the wilds of Lapland where it takes a woman captive and threatens a group of scientists."
For the record:
Purists know that Invasion Of The Animal People is not the film's original name. According to Wikipedia.org, the film was titled Space Invasion Of Lapland in its native Sweden; and it was titled Terror In The Midnight Sun throughout most of its international run. It was eventually snapped up by an American producer who edited in some new characters and footage only then to be released in the U.S. under this name above. Interestingly enough, one reviewer featured on IMDB.com -- who has seen both the Swedish version and the U.S. -- states that the original is much better than what American audiences were given as a result.
A star is born! On this day in 1960 (in Italy), Atom Age Vampire delivered a dose of bloodsucking terror to audiences. Directed by Anton Giulio Majano, the Horror/Fantasy starred Alberto Lupo, Susanne Loret, and Sergio Fantani. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An exotic dancer is disfigured in a car accident. A scientist develops a treatment that restores her beauty. To preserve her appearance the doctor must give her additional treatments using glands taken from murdered women."
"An exotic dancer is disfigured in a car accident. A scientist develops a treatment that restores her beauty. To preserve her appearance the doctor must give her additional treatments using glands taken from murdered women."
A star is born! On this day in 1961 (in Italy), Hercules Conquers Atlantis enjoyed its theatrical release. (FYI: as I've found, the film is referenced by several alternative titles included Hercules And The Captive Women or Hercules And The Haunted Women.) Written (in part) and directed by Vittorio Cottafavi, the Fantasy feature starred Reg Park in the role of the singular strongman, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The ever intrepid world-trotting hunk of a man Herc (Hercules to those who are not his friends) saves a beautiful maiden from the hands of an evil creature. She takes him to her home, Atlantis. Herc kicks some butt and saves her from her mother who wants to kill her and from some scary looking blond guys but unfortunately the rest of the inhabitants are destroyed. Do not worry because Herc escapes along with his son, the maiden and an annoying midget."
For the record:
Your humble editor has had the good fortune of seeing Hercules And The Captive Women, and he's even penned his thoughts on the film's 2021 video release. Interested parties can find the article right here.
"The ever intrepid world-trotting hunk of a man Herc (Hercules to those who are not his friends) saves a beautiful maiden from the hands of an evil creature. She takes him to her home, Atlantis. Herc kicks some butt and saves her from her mother who wants to kill her and from some scary looking blond guys but unfortunately the rest of the inhabitants are destroyed. Do not worry because Herc escapes along with his son, the maiden and an annoying midget."
For the record:
Your humble editor has had the good fortune of seeing Hercules And The Captive Women, and he's even penned his thoughts on the film's 2021 video release. Interested parties can find the article right here.
A star is born! On this day in 1964 (in the U.S.), the good people of Phoenix, Arizona were treated to an exclusive premiere event with the presentation of The Horror Of It All. Directed by Terence Fisher from a story by Ray Russell, the Horror/Comedy starred Pat Boone, Erica Rogers, and Dennis Price. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When an American salesman and his English fiancee visit her eccentric family who live in a remote old mansion in the country, he discovers that someone is trying to kill everyone there to get the family fortune."
"When an American salesman and his English fiancee visit her eccentric family who live in a remote old mansion in the country, he discovers that someone is trying to kill everyone there to get the family fortune."
A star is born! No, that's not an ad for the most dangerous game of 'Pull My Finger' imaginable ... that's a scene from The Boys From Brazil, a SciFi/Thriller that enjoyed its first theatrical presentation ever on this day in 1978 for the good people of Honolulu, Hawaii. Heywood Gould adapted the Ira Levin novel for the silver screen, and Franklin J. Schaffner directed. The feature film starred Gregory Peck, Laurence Olivier, and James Mason. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A Nazi hunter in Paraguay discovers a sinister and bizarre plot to rekindle the Third Reich."
For the record:
"A Nazi hunter in Paraguay discovers a sinister and bizarre plot to rekindle the Third Reich."
For the record:
- At the 1979 Academy Awards, The Boys From Brazil enjoyed three nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Music - Original Score,' 'Best Film Editing,' and 'Best Actor In A Leading Role.'
- At the 1979 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature scored an incredible six nominations (again, no wins) in the categories of 'Best Actor,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
On this day in 1982 (in the Philippines), Mansion Of The Doomed opened its doors. Well, cinematically, that is. Directed by Michael Pataki, the Horror/Fantasy starred Richard Basehart, Gloria Grahame, and Trish Stewart. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mad scientist fills his basement dungeon with victims in an insane attempt to restore his daughter's eyesight."
"A mad scientist fills his basement dungeon with victims in an insane attempt to restore his daughter's eyesight."
A star is born! Premiering on this day in 1983, Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn tried to kinda/sorta capitalize on a brief flirtation with 3D films but failed ... except for achieving cult status. Directed by Charles Band, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jeffrey Byron, Tim Thomerson, and Kelly Preston. Here's the film's plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A seeker named Dogen rescues Dhyana after her father is murdered by the evil Jared-Syn. To avenge her father's death, Dogen must find Jared-Syn's hideout in the mysterious "Lost City", but the only person who knows where it is an aging, burned-out seeker named Rhodes. Along the way, they will need to do battle against the hunter Baal and his Cyclopean minions for engaging Jared-Syn in a final encounter."
For the record:
Metalstorm was the recipient of the 'Best Special Effects' Award from the 1984 Fantafestival.
"A seeker named Dogen rescues Dhyana after her father is murdered by the evil Jared-Syn. To avenge her father's death, Dogen must find Jared-Syn's hideout in the mysterious "Lost City", but the only person who knows where it is an aging, burned-out seeker named Rhodes. Along the way, they will need to do battle against the hunter Baal and his Cyclopean minions for engaging Jared-Syn in a final encounter."
For the record:
Metalstorm was the recipient of the 'Best Special Effects' Award from the 1984 Fantafestival.
On this day from 1983 (in the U.S.) came another entry into low-budget SciFi schlock, a little something that went by the name Yor - the Hunter from the Future. (It had opened several months earlier in Italy.) Directed by genre legend Antonio Margheriti, the film starred Reb Brown, Corinne Cléry, and John Steiner. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Yor, an extremely blond prehistoric warrior, comes to question his origins, particularly with regard to a mysterious medallion he wears. When he learns of a desert goddess who supposedly wears the same medallion, Yor decides that he must find her and learn his true identity. Along the way, he encounters ape-men, dinosaurs, and a strange futuristic society."
For the record:
It would seem that the 1984 Razzie Awards took very favorably to Yor. The organization granted the film an impressive three nominations (but no wins): 'Worst Musical Score,' 'Worst Original Song,' and 'Worst New Star.'
"Yor, an extremely blond prehistoric warrior, comes to question his origins, particularly with regard to a mysterious medallion he wears. When he learns of a desert goddess who supposedly wears the same medallion, Yor decides that he must find her and learn his true identity. Along the way, he encounters ape-men, dinosaurs, and a strange futuristic society."
For the record:
It would seem that the 1984 Razzie Awards took very favorably to Yor. The organization granted the film an impressive three nominations (but no wins): 'Worst Musical Score,' 'Worst Original Song,' and 'Worst New Star.'
On this day in 1985 (in Spain), mankind was treated to yet one more cinematic exploration of our impending Apocalyptic doom with the release of A Man Called Rage. (The film's initial release was sometime in 1984, but that date -- at this juncture -- appears lost to history.) Directed by Tonino Ricci, the film starred Bruno Minniti, Stelio Candelli, and Werner Pochath. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a soldier of fortune enters "The Forbidden Land" to find uranium that will help save mankind. However, a rival adventurer is also after the uranium, but for his own ends."
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a soldier of fortune enters "The Forbidden Land" to find uranium that will help save mankind. However, a rival adventurer is also after the uranium, but for his own ends."
On this day in 1985 (in Spain), audiences were treated to another adventure in the Star Wars universe with the theatrical release of Caravan Of Courage: The Ewok Adventure. Directed by John Korty, the Family-friendly Fantasy starred Eric Walker, Warwick Davis, and Fionnula Flanagan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Wicket the Ewok and his friends agree to help two shipwrecked human children, Mace and Cindel, on a quest to find their parents."
For the record:
In the U.S., Caravan Of Courage played as a telefilm instead of a theatrical release. At the 1985 Primetime Emmy Awards, the flick scored the win in the category of 'Outstanding Special Effects' though had to settle for a nomination alone in the category of 'Outstanding Children's Program.'
"Wicket the Ewok and his friends agree to help two shipwrecked human children, Mace and Cindel, on a quest to find their parents."
For the record:
In the U.S., Caravan Of Courage played as a telefilm instead of a theatrical release. At the 1985 Primetime Emmy Awards, the flick scored the win in the category of 'Outstanding Special Effects' though had to settle for a nomination alone in the category of 'Outstanding Children's Program.'
On this day in 1988 (in Italy), Steel Dawn enjoyed its run in theaters. Directed by Lance Hool, the SciFi feature starred Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a warrior wandering through the desert comes upon a group of settlers who are being menaced by a murderous gang that is after the water they control."
"In a post-apocalyptic world, a warrior wandering through the desert comes upon a group of settlers who are being menaced by a murderous gang that is after the water they control."
A star is born! On this day in 1988 (in the U.S.), Freddy was back at it again with the silver screen release of A Nightmare On Elm Street 4: The Dream Master. Directed by Renny Harlin, the Horror/Fantasy starred Robert Englund, Rodney Eastman, and John Beckman; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Freddy Krueger returns once again to terrorize the dreams of the remaining Dream Warriors, as well as those of a young woman who may be able to defeat him for good."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), The Dream Master enjoyed three nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Horror Film.'
"Freddy Krueger returns once again to terrorize the dreams of the remaining Dream Warriors, as well as those of a young woman who may be able to defeat him for good."
For the record:
At the 1990 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), The Dream Master enjoyed three nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Supporting Actor,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Horror Film.'
On this day in 1988 (in Portugal), audiences were treated to an enigma titeld Aenigma. Written (in part) and directed by Lucio Fulci, the Horror/Mystery starred Jared Martin, Lara Lamberti, and Ulli Reinthaler. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The spirit of a comatose teenage girl possesses the body of a newcomer to her girls boarding school to enact bloody revenge against the elitist, lingerie-clad coeds responsible for her condition."
"The spirit of a comatose teenage girl possesses the body of a newcomer to her girls boarding school to enact bloody revenge against the elitist, lingerie-clad coeds responsible for her condition."
Erm ... I thought girl just wanna have fun? No? On this day in 1989 (in the Philippines), The Sisterhood surfaced in theaters. Directed by Cirio H. Santiago, the SciFi feature starred Rebecca Holden and Chuck Wagner, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The year is 2021 AD. Women have been enslaved by a brutal army of men who survived the nuclear holocaust. Their only hope for freedom is in the hands of a nomadic band of fierce she-warriors: The Sisterhood."
"The year is 2021 AD. Women have been enslaved by a brutal army of men who survived the nuclear holocaust. Their only hope for freedom is in the hands of a nomadic band of fierce she-warriors: The Sisterhood."
On this day in 1995 (in Hong Kong and Taiwan), Sixty Million Dollar Man served up laughs at the expense of its SciFi concept. Written and directed by the team of Jing Wong and Wai-Man Yip, the Comedy starred Stephen Chow, Gigi Leung, and Man-Tat Ng. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A rich playboy gets blown up by a gangster when he flirts with the gangster's wife. Through a series of circumstances, his professor makes him a synthetic body that allows him to change into anything he wants."
"A rich playboy gets blown up by a gangster when he flirts with the gangster's wife. Through a series of circumstances, his professor makes him a synthetic body that allows him to change into anything he wants."
A star is born! On this day in 1997 (in the U.S.), Mimic delivered some supersized bug terrors with its theatrical premiere for the good people of New York City, New York! Written (in part) and directed by Guillermo del Toro, the SciFi/Horror starred Mira Sorvino, Jeremy Northam, and Alexander Goodwin. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three years ago, entomologist Dr. Susan Tyler genetically created an insect to kill cockroaches carrying a virulent disease. Now, the insects are out to destroy their only predator, mankind."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mimic definitely caught the attention of the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. At their 1998 Saturn Awards ceremony, the film won top honors in the 'Best Make-Up' category while having to settle for being nominees alone in the categories of 'Best Actress,' 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor/Actress,' 'Best Writer,' and 'Best Horror Film.'
"Three years ago, entomologist Dr. Susan Tyler genetically created an insect to kill cockroaches carrying a virulent disease. Now, the insects are out to destroy their only predator, mankind."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mimic definitely caught the attention of the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films. At their 1998 Saturn Awards ceremony, the film won top honors in the 'Best Make-Up' category while having to settle for being nominees alone in the categories of 'Best Actress,' 'Best Performance By A Younger Actor/Actress,' 'Best Writer,' and 'Best Horror Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1998 (in the U.S.), Blade brought the hunt for vampires to the silver screen with its premiere for the good people of New York City, New York. Directed by Stephen Norrington from a script by David S. Goyer, the Fantasy/Thriller starred Wesley Snipes, Stephen Dorff, and Kris Kristofferson. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A half-vampire, half-mortal man becomes a protector of the mortal race, while slaying evil vampires."
For the record:
At the 1999 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Blade earned a solid two nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Horror Film.'
"A half-vampire, half-mortal man becomes a protector of the mortal race, while slaying evil vampires."
For the record:
At the 1999 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), Blade earned a solid two nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Make-Up' and 'Best Horror Film.'
On this day in 1998, Storm Trooper took the home video market by (you guessed it!) storm. The feature starred Carol Alt and John Laughlin, and here's the plot summary that's been provided via Amazon.com:
"Shortly after murdering her abusive husband, a woman takes an injured stranger into her home. She soon discovers the stranger is a cyborg. Will he be able to persuade her to help him flee from a mysterious gang of armed men?"
"Shortly after murdering her abusive husband, a woman takes an injured stranger into her home. She soon discovers the stranger is a cyborg. Will he be able to persuade her to help him flee from a mysterious gang of armed men?"
A star is born! On this day in 1998 (in Japan), The Survivor took his case ... to the home video marketplace! Directed by Nick Davis, the SciFi/Thriller starred Xavier Declie, Richard Moll, and Lisa Robin Kelly. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After mankind moved into space, the old planet Earth is forgotten, a polluted wasteland where only expelled prisoners still survive. One of them is Tarkin. When a capsule with the president lands on Earth, Kyla captures the politician because he knows a spaceship will come to the rescue, and that will be his chance to get off the prison planet. Tarkin, however, fights Kyla to free the president. While Kyla rules over an army of gladiators, Tarkin has to rely on the president's little grandson..."
"After mankind moved into space, the old planet Earth is forgotten, a polluted wasteland where only expelled prisoners still survive. One of them is Tarkin. When a capsule with the president lands on Earth, Kyla captures the politician because he knows a spaceship will come to the rescue, and that will be his chance to get off the prison planet. Tarkin, however, fights Kyla to free the president. While Kyla rules over an army of gladiators, Tarkin has to rely on the president's little grandson..."
A star is born! On this day in 2003, Leeches! sunk its teeth into the home video market. (Wait ... do leeches even have teeth?) The feature starred Alexandra Westmore and Stacey Nelson, and here's the plot as listed on IMDB.com:
"Common-type aquatic leeches grow to large size after feeding on steroid-laced blood of a number of college endurance swimmers, and then the nasty creatures lay siege to the entire campus for more."
"Common-type aquatic leeches grow to large size after feeding on steroid-laced blood of a number of college endurance swimmers, and then the nasty creatures lay siege to the entire campus for more."
A star is born! On this day in 2004 (in the U.S.), the good people of Los Angeles, California were treated to the silver screen launch of Dead Doll. Written (in part) and directed by Adam Sherman, the Horror/Comedy starred Romi Koch, Goran Dukic, and Matt Boren. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A frustrated sculptor strangles his girlfriend and crafts her body into a life-like doll. From beyond the grave her spirit plays upon the fantasies of others, seducing everyone that crosses her path, and luring them to their deaths."
"A frustrated sculptor strangles his girlfriend and crafts her body into a life-like doll. From beyond the grave her spirit plays upon the fantasies of others, seducing everyone that crosses her path, and luring them to their deaths."
A star is born! On this day in 2005 (in the U.S.), the glory that was Komodo Vs. Cobra enjoyed its first broadcast airing for all of mankind to behind. Written (in part) and directed by Jim Wynorski, the Fantasy/Comedy starred Michael Paré, Michelle Borth, and Renee Talbert. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Intent on uncovering the shady operations of a top-secret research facility, a small group of environmental activists sets foot on a deserted island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. There, along with the sole survivor, Dr Susan Richardson, the handful of utterly unprotected visitors will come face-to-face with the devastating results of human ignorance, and enormous, genetically mutated Komodo Dragons and King Cobras. In nature, only the fittest survive. Who will win in the ultimate battle between Komodo and Cobra?"
"Intent on uncovering the shady operations of a top-secret research facility, a small group of environmental activists sets foot on a deserted island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. There, along with the sole survivor, Dr Susan Richardson, the handful of utterly unprotected visitors will come face-to-face with the devastating results of human ignorance, and enormous, genetically mutated Komodo Dragons and King Cobras. In nature, only the fittest survive. Who will win in the ultimate battle between Komodo and Cobra?"
On this day in 2007 (in the United Kingdom), the Fantasy/Telefilm Highlander: The Source drew its sword ... because there can be only one! The feature starred Adrian Paul and Thekla Reuten, and here's the premise as provided by the reliable IMDB.com:
"Duncan MacLeod and his fellow Immortals quest to locate the Grail of their world."
"Duncan MacLeod and his fellow Immortals quest to locate the Grail of their world."
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Stratagem enjoyed its release on home video. Written and directed by Jeremy Dean, the SciFi/Thriller starred Rian Bishop, Amber Marie Bollinger, and Evan Elliot. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two government agents are sent to investigate a solid steel room that people enter, but don't come out of. They soon realize that the only way to discover the secret of the room's origin is to seek out the aid of an ex-magician/escape artist who has been convicted of murdering her husband. Little do they know that this merciless room is only the beginning of what will be the adventure of their lives."
"Two government agents are sent to investigate a solid steel room that people enter, but don't come out of. They soon realize that the only way to discover the secret of the room's origin is to seek out the aid of an ex-magician/escape artist who has been convicted of murdering her husband. Little do they know that this merciless room is only the beginning of what will be the adventure of their lives."
A star is born! On this day in 2009 (in France), 9 brought a bit of animated Fantasy to audiences. Written (in part) and directed by Shane Acker, the flick featured the voices of Elijah Wood, Jennifer Connelly, and Crispin Glover. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A rag doll that awakens in a postapocalyptic future holds the key to humanity's salvation."
"A rag doll that awakens in a postapocalyptic future holds the key to humanity's salvation."
A star is born! On this day in 2011 (in Germany), audiences in attendance of the Berlin Fantasy Filmfest were treated to the very first showing of The Last Death. Directed by David Ruiz, the SciFi/Drama starred Kuno Becker, Álvaro Guerrero, and Carlos Bracho. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Dr. Alexanderson finds an unconscious young man by the doorstep of his cabin. He will try to piece together the mans broken memory without knowing the dangers his family and friends will be exposed to in this psychological revenge thriller."
"Dr. Alexanderson finds an unconscious young man by the doorstep of his cabin. He will try to piece together the mans broken memory without knowing the dangers his family and friends will be exposed to in this psychological revenge thriller."
On this day in 2014, there be dragons here when P-51 Dragon Fighter premiered in theatres. The feature starred Scott Martin and Stephanie Beran, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"As World War Two rages on, the allies are about to push the Nazis out of North Africa. That's when the Nazis turn up the heat, unleashing their secret Weapon - dragons."
"As World War Two rages on, the allies are about to push the Nazis out of North Africa. That's when the Nazis turn up the heat, unleashing their secret Weapon - dragons."
A star is born! On this day in 2015, audiences faced yet another Doomsday. The feature starred Alain Terzoli and Darren Jacobs, and here's the plot summary that's provided compliments of IMDB.com:
"Achilles, a normal man infected with a disease that will bring down the Erebus rulers (human/machine hybrids) escapes back in time from 2410 to the present day where he has a chance to stop the Erebus from ever rising to power. However he is followed by the Erebus-7 who will stop at nothing to hunt him down."
"Achilles, a normal man infected with a disease that will bring down the Erebus rulers (human/machine hybrids) escapes back in time from 2410 to the present day where he has a chance to stop the Erebus from ever rising to power. However he is followed by the Erebus-7 who will stop at nothing to hunt him down."
On this day in 2015 (in Australia), the 1958-produced Fantasy/Classic The 7th Voyage Of Sinbad enjoyed a rare theatrical re-release meant to celebrate that title's recent re-issue on DVD and Blu-ray. Directed by Nathan Juran, the motion picture starred Kerwin Mathews, Kathryn Grant, and Richard Eyer. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a princess is shrunken by an evil wizard, Sinbad must undertake a quest to an island of monsters to cure her and prevent a war."
For the record:
At the 1959 Hugo Awards, the film enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation,' but -- curiously enough -- no film apparently received enough votes to win the top honors that year. Also, it bears mentioning that in 2008, The 7th Voyage Of Sinbad was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry which seeks to preserve films that have contributed to the wider legacy of the medium.
"When a princess is shrunken by an evil wizard, Sinbad must undertake a quest to an island of monsters to cure her and prevent a war."
For the record:
At the 1959 Hugo Awards, the film enjoyed a nomination in the category of 'Best Dramatic Presentation,' but -- curiously enough -- no film apparently received enough votes to win the top honors that year. Also, it bears mentioning that in 2008, The 7th Voyage Of Sinbad was inducted into the U.S.'s National Film Registry which seeks to preserve films that have contributed to the wider legacy of the medium.
A star is born! On this day in 2016 (in India), Nambiar enjoyed its full theatrical release. Written and directed by Ganeshaa, the SciFi/Comedy starred Vijay Antony, Arya, and Devadarshini Chetan. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"The protagonist, like most people, has positive and negative thoughts; however, in his case, the negative thoughts take on a life of their own."
"The protagonist, like most people, has positive and negative thoughts; however, in his case, the negative thoughts take on a life of their own."
On this day in 2017 (in Hungary), Guardians enjoyed its theatrical release. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary for the SciFi feature:
"During the Cold War, an organization called "Patriot" created a super-hero squad, which includes members of multiple Soviet republics. For years, the heroes had to hide their identities, but in hard times they must show themselves again."
"During the Cold War, an organization called "Patriot" created a super-hero squad, which includes members of multiple Soviet republics. For years, the heroes had to hide their identities, but in hard times they must show themselves again."
On this day in 2017 (in Germany), Howl made some noise at the box office. Directed by Paul Hyett, the Horror/Thriller starred Elliot Cowan, Rosie Day, and Calvin A. Dean. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When passengers on a train are attacked by a creature, they must band together in order to survive until morning."
"When passengers on a train are attacked by a creature, they must band together in order to survive until morning."
A star is born ... but all good things must end! On this day in 2018 (in Brazil and the U.S.), The Last Sharknado - It's About Time brought the sharks full circle as a television entity. Directed by Anthony C. Ferrante, the flick starred Ian Ziering, Tara Redi, and Cassandra Scerbo. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Fin has to go back in time to rejoin his shark-battling friends to stop the first Sharknado and save humanity."
"Fin has to go back in time to rejoin his shark-battling friends to stop the first Sharknado and save humanity."
On this day in 2021 (in Germany), The Dustwalker found its way into the home video marketplace. Written and directed by Sandra Sciberras, the SciFi/Horror starred Jolene Anderson, Stef Dawson, and Richard Davies. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"One by one the residents of a small, isolated town become infected by an insidious bug that turns them into violent, indiscriminate killing machines."
"One by one the residents of a small, isolated town become infected by an insidious bug that turns them into violent, indiscriminate killing machines."
On this day in 1970, Ace Of Wands aired "The Mind Robbers: Part 1." This served as the fourth episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by TV.com:
"Tarot and his companions try to track down two missing government ministers."
"Tarot and his companions try to track down two missing government ministers."
On this day in 1970, Ace Of Wands gave audiences a second installment with the airing of "The Mind Robbers: Part 2." According to our friends at TV.com, here's the plot summary:
"Tarot and his companions track the missing ministers to a mysterious house where he comes up against Señor Zandar."
"Tarot and his companions track the missing ministers to a mysterious house where he comes up against Señor Zandar."
On this day in 1992 (in the United Kingdom), Star Trek aired "The Cage," the original pilot episode to the Gene Roddenberry classic Science Fiction program. According to IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Capt. Pike is held prisoner and tested by aliens who have the power to project incredibly lifelike illusions."
"Capt. Pike is held prisoner and tested by aliens who have the power to project incredibly lifelike illusions."
On this day in 1995 (in the Netherlands), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Transfigurations." Officially, this served as the twenty-fifth episode in the program's third season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The Enterprise finds a deserted planet where a ship has crashed, and, with it, the lone survivor with no memory, but extraordinary healing powers."
"The Enterprise finds a deserted planet where a ship has crashed, and, with it, the lone survivor with no memory, but extraordinary healing powers."
On this day in 1999, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Rules of Engagement." This served as the ninth episode to the long-running program's third season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"SG1 come across another SG team being attacked by Jaffa. They offer to help but are shot by the SG team members. When they awake, they find out that the other SG team are Jaffa, loyal to Apophis, who are planning to infiltrate Earth. Can SG1 convince them that Apophis is dead before the Jaffa fight to the death?"
"SG1 come across another SG team being attacked by Jaffa. They offer to help but are shot by the SG team members. When they awake, they find out that the other SG team are Jaffa, loyal to Apophis, who are planning to infiltrate Earth. Can SG1 convince them that Apophis is dead before the Jaffa fight to the death?"
On this day in 2005, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Beachhead." This served as the sixth episode to the long-running program's ninth season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"A prior of the Ori has established an ever-growing forcefield on a Jaffa-controlled planet. A minor Goa'uld, but also the one who engineered the multiple gate connections required for the defeat of the Replicators, comes to the SGC with information on the event and offers his help."
"A prior of the Ori has established an ever-growing forcefield on a Jaffa-controlled planet. A minor Goa'uld, but also the one who engineered the multiple gate connections required for the defeat of the Replicators, comes to the SGC with information on the event and offers his help."
On this day in 2007 (in Hungary), Firefly aired "War Stories." Officially, this served as the ninth episode in the program's only season on broadcast television, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Wash is jealous of the bond between Zoe and Mal and demands to go with Mal to trade the cargo of medical supplies with locals. However Niska's men capture and bring them on board. Niska tortures them both while Zoe collects money from the crew to pay a ransom for them. However Niska releases only Wash and takes Mal's ear to give to Zoe. But the Serenity's crew decides to fight to bring their captain back."
"Wash is jealous of the bond between Zoe and Mal and demands to go with Mal to trade the cargo of medical supplies with locals. However Niska's men capture and bring them on board. Niska tortures them both while Zoe collects money from the crew to pay a ransom for them. However Niska releases only Wash and takes Mal's ear to give to Zoe. But the Serenity's crew decides to fight to bring their captain back."
On this day in 2007, The 4400 aired "One of Us." This served as the tenth episode of the program's fourth (and final) season, and here's the plot summary that's been listed on IMDB.com:
"Richard and Isabelle are pursued by NTAC. Elsewhere, a test is developed that determines if people can be killed by promicin."
"Richard and Isabelle are pursued by NTAC. Elsewhere, a test is developed that determines if people can be killed by promicin."
On this day in 2012, Falling Skies aired "A More Perfect Union." This served as the tenth episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When skitters approach the newly combined resistance force, the groups' interaction surprises everyone. Meanwhile, Tom finds out life-changing news just as the 2nd Mass comes face-to-face with their most dangerous threat to date."
"When skitters approach the newly combined resistance force, the groups' interaction surprises everyone. Meanwhile, Tom finds out life-changing news just as the 2nd Mass comes face-to-face with their most dangerous threat to date."
On this day in 2013 (in Australia), Doctor Who aired "Smith And Jones." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When the hospital she works at is transported to the moon, medical student Martha Jones joins forces with The Doctor to hunt down an alien fugitive before the oxygen runs out."
"When the hospital she works at is transported to the moon, medical student Martha Jones joins forces with The Doctor to hunt down an alien fugitive before the oxygen runs out."
